Free Fun for Missoula Kids this Sunday

Sunday marks the start of "Unplug and Play" week here in Western Montana with the goal of getting kids (and parents!) away from their screens and outside to play.

Unplug and Play Screen Free Week is part of a national campaign to educate families on the detrimental effects of too much recreational screen time. Addiction to screens impacts family relationships, academics and a child’s emotional and physical health.

Let’s Move! Missoula is encouraging families to “Unplug and Play!” from April 28th to May 5th, and they are also introducing the 5-2-1-0 challenge this year. Let’s Move! 5-2-1-0 is a daily recipe for health used nationally for childhood obesity prevention. The four 5-2-1-0 behaviors are:

The screen free week kicks off Sunday (4/29) at McCormick Park with fun family activities including a climbing wall, ropes course, gymnastics, jump rope and face painting. The event is FREE from 1 to 4 p.m. U of M mascot Monte will also make an appearance and organizers encourage you to bike to the party to participate in the Bike Rodeo. And don't forget your water bottle!